By Leo Standora

December 18, 2010

 

The ASPCA voiced support Friday for a City Council proposal that would require dog owners to free Fido from overly long periods of being tethered outdoors.

 

The measure, introduced by Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (D-Queens), would bar owners from restraining their pets longer than three hours in a continuous 12-hour period.

 

Violations would be deemed animal abuse punishable by fines.

 

The ASPCA also backed a proposal by Councilwoman Jessica Lappin (D-Manhattan) to let the city boost license fees for unaltered dogs from $11.50 to $34. Part of the increase would go to the City Animal Population Control Fund.

 

ASPCA officials pointed out that tethered dogs can and have become aggressive. Tethering also exposes dogs to injury from other animals, people, extreme weather conditions and the tether or chain itself.

 

"We are grateful for the Council's consideration of these two very important bills, which will improve the lives of New York City's two- and four-legged residents," said ASPCA President and CEO Ed Sayres.